In November 2023, Russia saw the sale of 109.7 thousand new passenger cars, a figure that stands 2.1 times higher than the same month in 2022, according to the analytics firm Avtostat. The monthly rebound reflects a shift in consumer demand and a gradual recovery in the domestic market after a slow start to the year. Analysts note that this uptick is a clear signal of renewed buying activity among Russian residents, driven by a combination of seasonal demand, favorable financing options, and a stronger dealer network across major cities.
During the final autumn month, roughly seven out of ten new car purchases were concentrated among five brands. The market leader remained the domestic brand LADA, which posted 32.7 thousand units in November, capturing nearly 30% of the month’s sales. Within reach of the top slot, Haval registered 14.4 thousand cars, while Chery accounted for 11.3 thousand, Geely for 10.6 thousand, and Changan for 6.6 thousand. These figures illustrate how global brands continue to compete aggressively in the Russian market, even as regional manufacturers hold substantial influence over consumer preferences and price segments.
Across January through November 2023, Russians bought 939.3 thousand new passenger cars, marking a 64.9% increase from the same period in 2022. This sustained growth points to a broader trend of market stabilization after years of volatility, with consumer confidence gradually returning and dealerships expanding their stock and test-drive campaigns to entice buyers. Industry voices note that this trajectory may help close the gap to pre-pandemic sales levels, especially if financing remains accessible and wage growth remains steady into late 2024. Market forecasts issued by officials and trade bodies suggest a path toward higher annual volumes, even as global supply chain dynamics continue to influence production costs and delivery times for popular models. (Avtostat)
Earlier statements from a former official at the Ministry of Industry and Trade outlined a cautious but optimistic view of a market rebound. The projections indicated that 2024 could see a sales level near 1.3 million units, a benchmark that would mark a meaningful rebound from the challenging years that preceded it. The ministry’s forecast extended to 2026, with annual sales aligning with the average seen between 2015 and 2021. The plan envisions a steady growth trajectory of about 1% each year starting in 2027, ultimately placing 2030 sales around 1.8 million cars per year and reaching roughly 1.9 million in 2035. These forward-looking estimates reflect a policy focus on reviving domestic demand, supporting local manufacturing, and gradually restoring supply-chain resilience for new car buyers. (Ministry of Industry and Trade)
Previously, analysts discussed which car models had shown the most moderate price increases in Russia, offering insights into consumer affordability and brand strategy. The conversation highlighted how price dynamics, currency movements, and local incentives influence buyer choices at a time of shifting market conditions. Industry commentary suggests that while some segments experienced sharper price growth, others remained comparatively stable, helping sustain demand among a broad spectrum of buyers and enabling smoother transitions for households adjusting to evolving financial circumstances.